The visitors had not won at the stadium since 2006, but that run came to an end thanks to goals from Julian Alvarez and Alexander Sorloth in their quarter-final clash. Despite the result, Barcelona controlled large portions of the match and created numerous chances, but a key moment just before half-time shifted the balance.
Defender Pau Cubarsi brought down Giuliano Simeone as he advanced toward goal in a one-on-one situation. Referee Istvan Kovacs initially issued a yellow card, but after consulting the video assistant referee and reviewing the incident on the pitchside monitor, upgraded the decision to a red card. The dismissal proved costly for Barcelona.
Alvarez capitalised on the opportunity moments later, curling a precise free kick past the goalkeeper to give Atletico the lead. The goal shifted momentum firmly in favour of the visitors heading into the second half.
To their credit, Barcelona responded with determination despite being a man down. They dominated possession and pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Marcus Rashford came closest when his powerful free kick struck the crossbar, while other chances went narrowly wide or were denied by solid defending.
However, their attacking efforts left them exposed at the back. Atletico remained disciplined and clinical, making the most of limited opportunities. Their second goal came when Sorloth finished calmly from a low cross delivered by Matteo Ruggeri, effectively doubling the visitors' advantage.
Barcelona's inefficiency in front of goal proved decisive. They registered 24 attempts but failed to convert, highlighting a lack of cutting edge compared to Atletico's efficiency. The home side also saw a goal disallowed after Lamine Yamal was ruled offside in the buildup.
The defeat leaves Barcelona facing a difficult task in the second leg in Madrid. Although they have shown they can compete with Atletico, they will need a far more clinical performance to overturn the deficit and keep their Champions League hopes alive.
